Counter-Arguments
Check back soon for detailed info on using a counter-argument in your SAT Essay, but for now, check out these great resources:
SAT Essay Structure
Know what you are going to write, even before you see the prompt - Part 1: Structure.
First of all, come up with an essay STRUCTURE that you will use, no matter what the prompt is, no matter what your examples are. You should not be trying to organize your paper while the timer is counting down, so do it now. Many different formats might be appropriate; here's a suggestion that is based upon the 5-paragraph essays that you're already writing in school.
We'll discuss the overall paragraph structure first:
Introduction (1-2 sentences)
Example #1 (6-8 sentences)
Example #2 (6-8 sentences)
Counterexample (6-8 sentences)
Conclusion (1-2 sentences)
check back here for more detailed info
SAT Study Materials
SAT preparation requires that you immerse yourself in SAT questions and review material. Start off your prep by getting the proper study materials. There are alot of SAT books out there, many of which are inefficient, inappropriate, and/or boring. Here are some of the best SAT prep books - buy them now and start studying immediately!
Strategies for Writing the SAT Essay
Twenty-five minutes to compose an essay addressing a random prompt! Uggghhhh!
You probably have two big problems with writing the SAT essay (which counts toward your Writing score):
- There is not enough time
- It is hard to come up with examples
Here are some simple strategies to help you overcome these difficulties. They'll be posted in blog-style installments, so keep checking back if you want a perfect score on your SAT essay...
(first off... be sure to buy The Official SAT Study Guide, 2nd edition
How can I improve my SAT scores?
If you are wondering how to obtain a higher SAT score, here are some suggestions.
- Start studying NOW. Today. It is never too early to start preparing for the SAT, but for many students, it soon becomes too late to significantly increase scores. Cramming for the SAT is ineffective and is just procrastination. Studying just a little every week over a long period of time is the only true way to maximize your scores.